Valley Calendar

Posted: Saturday, Feb 23rd, 2013

Saturday, February 23

CONEJOS — A FREE community wide Health and Wellness Fair will be held on Saturday, February 23 at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church Parish hall in Conejos. Educational and informational booths as well as activities for children will be available. Call Jocelyn Quintana at 580-9428.

ALAMOSA — A free forum, “Coping with Issues of Aging” will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, February 23, at the First United Methodist Church in Alamosa. A free lunch will be served at noon.

ALAMOSA — Colorado State Forest Service will hold a seedling tree workshop from 10 a.m.—noon, Saturday, Feb. 23 at the San Luis Valley Water Conservancy District office, 623 Fourth Street. The workshop covers species selection and planting advice.

ALAMOSA — A beginning organic gardening course, “The Basics of Home Garden Production,” with Paul Niebel will be held from 10 a.m. to noon beginning Feb. 23 in the auditorium at Trinidad Junior State College, Alamosa. Bring a potluck dish to share, and childcare will be provided.

Sunday, February 24

ALAMOSA — Knights of Columbus in Alamosa will hold progressive bingo pay off of $5,000 this Sunday, Feb. 24 at 7 p.m.

Monday, February 25

VALLEY — The 20th annual Coming Alive program officially kicks off on Monday, February 25 and continues for 10 weeks. To celebrate 20 years of success, the business registration fee will be waived. Contact Kathy Pachelli at 587-1062.

Tuesday, February 26

ALAMOSA — The San Luis Valley Chapter of Trout Unlimited will meet at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 26, at the Ramada Inn, Alamosa. This month’s program will feature fly fishing in Labrador. The meeting is free. Contact: 378-2751.

ALAMOSA — All interested bidders are invited to attend a Subcontractor/Supplier Open House for the Alamosa H.S. stadium project at 4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 26 at Alamosa High School in the auditorium. Please contact Mike Kosters with any questions, (719) 473-5321.

ALAMOSA — SLV Regional Medical Center and Conejos County Hospital invite the public to take part in a Community Health Assessment Forum. SLVRMC will host the approximately hour-long forum on Feb. 26 at 6:30 p.m. in the SLVRMC Education and Conference Center at 1921 Main St. in Alamosa. Contact Cathy Morin at 589-8090.

ALAMOSA — Alamosa Community Blood Drive will be Tuesday, February 26, from 11:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. at the LDS Church at 927 Weber Drive, Alamosa. To schedule an appointment, contact the Bonfils Appointment Center at 800-365-0006, ext. 2, or sign up online at www.bonfils.org, enter site code #0319.

MONTE VISTA — Colorado Commissioner of Agriculture, John Salazar invites the public to attend a town hall meeting focusing on meat processing and inspections at 7 p.m. February 26, at the Colorado Potato Growers Administrative Committee Office, 1305 Park Ave., Monte Vista. See www.colorado.gov/ag

SALIDA — Public meetings to address spruce beetle concerns in the Saguache County area, with a forest entomologist on hand to provide information and answer questions, will be held at 7 p.m. Feb. 26 at Salida Scout Hut, Salida. Contact: Adam Moore, 587-0915.

MONTE VISTA — Colorado State Forest Service will hold a seedling tree workshop from 7-8:30 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 26 at the Monte Vista Information Center, 947 First Avenue. The workshop covers species selection and planting advice.

Wednesday, February 27

SOUTH FORK—The South Fork Fire Department will be meeting Wednesday, Feb. 27 at 6 p.m. at the Rio Grande County Annex, along with the Del Norte Fire Protection District Board to hear concerns and questions from the public.

Call 873-0095, or email tyco74@gmail.com. Another meeting to be held in South Fork on March 4.

SAGUACHE — Mountain Valley School students invite parents and interested adults in a fun night of bingo on February 27th from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Mountain Valley School in Saguache. Healthy snacks will be provided.

ALAMOSA — Alamosa Public Library offers the opportunity to gain help with any problems or questions with Microsoft Word and/or Excel on Wednesday, February 27 from 5–8 p.m. offering 30 min appointments. Bring a laptop or work with the tutors. Book an appointment today. Email Semery2@hotmail.com Those with specific problems please mention them in the email.

Thursday, February 28

ALAMOSA — TEFAP commodities for Alamosa County will be distributed on Thursday, Feb. 28, from 9-11 a.m. and 4-5 p.m. at the Alamosa County Shop, 1316 17th Street, Alamosa. Present ID with proof of residency. Contact 589-4567.

ALAMOSA — Please join in the annual San Luis Valley Relay for Life kick-off for the 2013 Relay Season on February 28 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the SLV Mental Health Center at 8745 County Road 9 S., Alamosa. Contact: Julie Chacon at 588-1984 or Emilia Herrera at 588-5426.

MONTE VISTA — The Third Annual Kiwanis Dancing for a Cause dance competition will be held on March 1 and March 2. For information call Janet Noland at 852-5789 or Leslie Widger at 587-7161 or email Leslie_widger@hotmail.com

Friday, March 1

ALAMOSA — The Alamosa Senior Center is having Casino Night on Friday, March 1, starting at 6 p.m. with blackjack, poker, craps, bingo, and pull tabs, soda bar, popcorn and pizza and some great prizes.

ALAMOSA — A benefit chili supper and auction of baked goods and other items is planned for Friday, March 1, at Pro Shed, 573 West Hwy 160, Alamosa, with proceeds going for the medical expenses of a pancreatic cancer survivor. Dinner will be from 5-7 p.m. with auction following. Donated items are appreciated. Contact Tim Byler, 719-849-8927.

ALAMOSA — Alamosa County Chamber of Commerce annual meeting will be Friday, March 1, from 6-9:30 p.m. at the Bistro Rialto in Alamosa. The event will feature dinner, election of officers and guest speaker and at 8 p.m. a ride on the Rio Grande Scenic Railroad to Monte Vista and back. Cost is $35. Non-chamber members welcome. Call 587-0520 for reservations.

MONTE VISTA — Enjoy an evening of entertainment at the Monte Vista Kiwanis Club “Dancing for a Cause” on Saturday, March 2, at 7 p.m. at the Ski-Hi Complex in Monte Vista. Admission is $5 for adults; $2 for students (college students need ID); and children under 8 are free. Doors will open at 6 p.m. A dance competition will be interspersed with entertainment followed by open dance with “Gunbarrel Junction.”

ALAMOSA — A Defensive Driving Class, certified by both the National Safety Council and the Colorado Safety Association, will be held Saturday, March 2. This class may be used to defer tickets and/or lower insurance rates. Call 587-0450 to register.

MONTE VISTA — A Horse Workshop and Tack Sale and Swap will be on Saturday, March 2 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at the McMullen Indoor Arena at the Ski Hi complex in Monte Vista (Sherman Avenue.)The event is free though donations will be much appreciated. Lunch/snacks will be available. Booth space is available. Call SLV Extension 852-7381, Patti de Avanzar 379-4080 (especially for tack sale questions), Claire Barker 378-2024, and April Kessler-Harris 852-2694 for further information.

Sunday, March 3

ALAMOSA — Sunshine Christian School presents “The T-Rex Express” on the Rio Grande Railroad to a simulated dig site for real Mammoth bones Sunday, March 3. There will be prizes, gifts, and live music, balloons, face painting. Call Rio Grande Scenic Railroad at 587-0520 or 877-726-7245. Anyone wishing to help PALS youth ride the T-Rex can send their donations to Sunshine Christian School, 315 Craft Drive, Alamosa 81101 or call Sue at 480-1629.

Tuesday, March 5

DEL NORTE—The Del Norte Chamber of Commerce will celebrate the Annual Awards Program and Pie Auction at the Rio Grande County Annex Building Tuesday, March 5, at 7 p.m. Tickets will be sold at the door for $5 per person.

MONTE VISTA — The Monte Vista Bands Annual Sweetheart Concert will be held on Tuesday, March 5, at 7 p.m. at Central Auditorium, Monte Vista.

ALAMOSA — SLV Regional Medical Center and Conejos County Hospital invite the public to take part in a Community Health Assessment Forum. CCH will host the forum on March 5 at 5 p.m. at CCH, located at 19021 Hwy 285 in La Jara. Contact Cathy Morin at 589-8090.

ALAMOSA — The Adams State University Faculty Lecture Series hosts “How Body Movement Affects Our Everyday Lives: Physical Intelligence,” by Matthew D. Luttrell, visiting assistant professor of music, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, in Porter Hall room 130. This lecture will is given in an interactive environment, so be ready to participate. All talks are free and public. Complimentary light refreshments will be offered. Contact Dr. Kristy Duran at 587-7767, or by email: klduran@adams.edu.

Thursday, March 7

ALAMOSA — Chuck Pyle, Jenny Bird and Don Richmond will share their talents, in a songwriter-in-the-round format, to benefit the San Luis Valley Cancer Relief Fund, Thurs., March 7 at 7 p.m. in Leon Memorial Hall on the Adams State University campus. Tickets are $25 for adults, $15 for students, and can be purchased at All Good Things in Monte Vista, the Narrow Gauge Newsstand in Alamosa and the Green Spot in Alamosa.

MONTE VISTA — An Open House will be held at the Monte Vista Bus Garage on Thursday, March 7, starting at 4:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to tour the new facility.

March 8-9

MONTE VISTA — Roland Ford and Evelyn Sprouse Rowe will be featured in an art show and opening at “All Good Things Gallery” in Monte Vista March 8 and 9 and through the month of March.

March 8-10

MONTE VISTA — The 30th Annual Monte Vista Crane Festival will be held March 8-10 with viewing tours, presentations, exhibits, workshops and Saturday dinner at 7 p.m. To make reservations for the Saturday dinner call 852-3552 by March 5. See www.cranefest.com

CENTER — Center Conservation District will hold a Private Pesticide Applicators License Workshop on March 13 in the Conference Room of the new USDA Service Center located at 0048 W. County Road 10N, Center. Registration and a light breakfast will begin at 8:30 a.m. A training session for the applicator’s test will begin at 9 a.m., followed by a complimentary lunch at noon. The applicator’s testing session will begin at 1 p.m. Cost is $30, which includes the training, a study book, breakfast and lunch. Center Conservation District will pay the training cost of $30 for the first 20 people that sign up and attend this workshop. Call Lamar Taylor at 754-3400 x111 or District Manager, Brenda Anderson at 754-3400 x108.

Thursday, March 14

MONTE VISTA — Hands on workshop for understanding financial statements will be held at the Monte Vista Computer Lab, Thursday, March 14, from 4-6 p.m., $10 per person. Please register with Donna Wehe at 589-3682 or donna@slv-sbdc.com

Friday, March 15

ANTONITO — The Antonito Seniors will hold our annual Lenten Potluck on Friday, March 15, starting at 1:30 p.m. All are invited to bring their favorite meatless dish, side dish or desert. For more information call 376-2294.

LA JARA — A Conejos County Community Blood Drive will be held on Friday, March 15 from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the main church social hall at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, 716 Broadway, La Jara. For more information or to schedule an appointment please contact Ann Holmes at (719) 274-4477 or fafarm@centurytel.net

Monday, March 18

LA JARA — Free produce and bread distribution at Our Lady of The Valley Catholic Church in La Jara will be available March 18.

March 18-22

VALLEY — A Rio Grande Leaders Course has been organized to provide the opportunity for 20 community members to engage in education and networking to prepare to take a future role in safeguarding, developing, and managing the water resources of the San Luis Valley in the evenings of March 18th-22 at the office of the San Luis Valley Water Conservancy District, 623 Fourth Street, Alamosa. Applications are due to the SLVWCD offices or to HeatherRDutton@gmail.com by 5 p.m. on March 1. Applications can be downloaded from rgwcd.org or slvwcd.org, or picked up at 623 Fourth Street in Alamosa. Contact Heather Dutton or Mike Gibson at 589-2230.

Thursday, March 21

ALAMOSA — “Cutting costs in the workplace: managing conflict,” presented by Luke Yoder and Alice Price, mediators for the Restorative Programs, will be held Thursday, March 21, from 11:30 a.m.- 1 p.m. at the Alamosa County building; $25 per person or discount for teams; includes a light lunch; Please register with Donna Wehe at 589-3682 or donna@slv-sbdc.com by March 15.

Saturday, March 23

DEL NORTE—The Del Norte Health Fair is scheduled March 23 from 7 to 11 a.m. at the Del Norte Elementary School mini-gymnasium.

Friday, April 5

CENTER — The annual Saguache County Health Fair will be Friday, April 5, from 7-11 a.m. at the Head Start building at 301 East Third Street, Center. Many free screenings will be available as well as blood tests for nominal fees. For information or to volunteer call 754-3191, 754-2773 or 655-2533.

Saturday, April 20

ALAMOSA — The mystery/comedy “Darling, You Slay Me!” will be held at 6 p.m. April 20 at the Inn of the Rio Grande in Alamosa. Contact Roscoe, 719-859-2949.

Ongoing

ALAMOSA — Trinity Lutheran School is holding its first Read-a-Thon fundraiser, “The Big Catch,” through February 28 to encourage students to read more and enjoy reading. Those who are interested in making a pledge or donating a prize, please contact the school at 587-3271. Monetary donations can be mailed to Trinity Lutheran School at PO Box 787, Alamosa 81101 and are tax deductible.

MONTE VISTA — Members of the Kiwanis Club of Monte Vista are sponsoring their Annual Crane Quilt Raffle. Tickets are on sale at one ticket for $2 or three tickets for $5. The drawing will be held during the Crane Festival on March 10, at 2 p.m. at Ski Hi Park in Monte Vista. The winner does not need to be present to win. Tickets are available from Kiwanis members at the following locations: Sonshine Acres-Coffeehouse & Kitchen Store; Jack’s Market-Monte Vista; Shades, Quilts, & Etc.; Carnegie Public Library; Del Norte Bank; Sunflower Bank; Dairy Queen; San Luis Valley Federal Bank-Monte Vista; Rio Grande Savings and Loan-Monte Vista; City of Monte Vista; Mary Jo Merkley Insurance; SLV Earthmover’s; Wall Smith Bateman & Associates-Monte Vista; and Tri County Senior Citizens. Tickets will also be available at Ski Hi Park during the festival.

ALAMOSA — Adams State University’s Zacheis Planetarium presents free Friday movies at 4:15 p.m. The movies are free, but tickets are required. Tickets will be available at the planetarium starting at 4 p.m. each Friday. Limit two tickets per person. Children must be accompanied by an adult. See descriptions of the movies at blogs.adams.edu/zacheis

The schedule includes:

March 1 — “Two Small Pieces of Glass” (25 minutes)

March 8 — “IBEX: Search for the Edge of the Solar System” (27 minutes)

ALAMOSA —Adams State University School of Business, Trinidad State Junior College Valley Campus, and The Piton Foundation are providing free tax service for families with income under $50,000. Adams State’s site is open from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. every Saturday and 4 p.m. until 8 p.m., and every Monday through April 13, in the School of Business Building lobby, Third St. and Richardson Ave. This site will be closed March 9-17 for spring break and Saturday’s hours will change to 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. and starting March 23 and Monday’s hours will change to 4-7 p.m. starting March 18. The TSJC Valley Campus room 216, 1011 Main St., is open from 4-8 p.m. every Wednesday from January 30 through March 13; and 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Saturday, March 9 and March 16. The Alamosa Senior Center, 92 Colorado Ave. will offer free tax services from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Wednesdays, February 6 through March 27, call 589-3277 to schedule an appointment. Call 587-7316 or 955-0742.

VALLEY — Need help with home repairs? Christian Community Service Projects is now accepting applications for home repair for the 2013 summer work program. Services include basic home repairs, painting, yard work, roofing, weatherization and other miscellaneous jobs. To receive an application call Suzanne at 589-2330 or email ccsp@gojade.org

ALAMOSA — The Friends of the Alamosa Public Library invites submissions for the fifth edition of its literary and art collection, Messages from the Hidden Lake. Creative writers and photographers of all ages may submit pieces for the volume, to be published in the fall. Submission deadline is May 15. Genre categories include poetry, short creative fiction and non-fiction, and black and white photography. There is a special category for full-color cover photography. Cash prizes will be awarded. Submission guidelines and entry forms are available online at: www.alamosalibrary.org. For more info, call 589-6592.

ANTONITO — Antonito Senior Citizens Association is planning a trip to Branson, Mo., October 5-13. The Branson Show Extravaganza trip is open to all adults 21 and older. For more information or to reserve a spot, call 376-2294 or email seniors1@gojade.org

ALAMOSA — The Adam State University Human Performance and Physical Education Department’s Human Performance Lab opens its doors to the San Luis Valley Community for a variety of fitness tests at affordable prices. Dr. Tracey Robinson, professor of HPPE, and graduate assistant Maria Martinez will conduct fitness tests every Tuesday evening from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. Fitness testing is by appointment only. To set up an appointment please contact Martinez at martinezmm008@grizzlies.adams.edu or Robinson at tlrobins@adams.edu or 587-7663.

ALAMOSA — SLV Regional Medical Center provides free breast and cervical cancer screenings and diagnostic services through the Women’s Wellness Connection Program (WWC). To be eligible for WWC, patients must be 40 to 64 years of age and meet income requirements. Call SLVRMC Patient Navigator Theresa Curtis at 587-6319. Limited funding is available so call now.

ALAMOSA — The City of Alamosa is soliciting proposals from local or regional artists or groups of artists to display their work on a rotating basis throughout the City Hall and Library Complex. The project is open to all artists, age 18. Artists must prepare and submit: Letter of Interest; Digital Portfolio of 3+ pieces that are representative of the work to be displayed; and Artists Statement and CV. Please forward all electronic submissions to arice@ci.alamosa.co.us; physical documents should be dropped off or mailed to the Alamosa Family Recreation Center, 2222 Old Sanford Road, Alamosa. Please contact City of Alamosa Community Activities Manager Andy Rice at 589-2105 or arice@ci.alamosa.co.us for more information.

ALAMOSA — Friends of the Alamosa Library are collecting book and media donations in their book shed behind the Alamosa post office the first Sundays of the month, January through May from 1-3 p.m. to prepare for the summer book, CD, DVD and tape sales. Folks may drop off donations or browse the shelves during those hours and purchase more books, CDs etc. The Friends will pick up donations within the Alamosa city limits. Call 588-2287.

VALLEY — The Creede Arts Council welcomes area painters, photographers, poets and writers, students included, to submit their work for consideration for the 2013 Willow Creek Journal. Young artists and writers are encouraged to submit their work. The deadline for submission is February 28. See www.creedeartscouncil.com, creedearts@gojade.org, or call (719) 658-0312.

VALLEY — The American Red Cross is seeking skilled communications volunteers to utilize their skills in helping the Red Cross in Alamosa and the surrounding communities. Several positions are open; volunteers may serve in one or multiple roles, depending upon skills and availability: Disaster public affairs: Serve on-call several days a month to provide public information and media outreach during local disasters; Digital Engagement: Contribute to our blog and support the daily operations of our local social media; Storytelling: Help share the Red Cross story by taking photos and/or interviewing clients, volunteers and heroes and capturing their stories in writing, video and/or photo. Prospective volunteers should have excellent writing and communications skills, have solid computer and social media skills, and be willing to commit to serve for at least one year. E-mail resumes to Patricia.Billinger@redcross.org

HOMELAKE — The Homelake Veterans History Center Museum is open Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. noon and from 1-3 p.m. or by appointment. Appointments can be arranged by calling 852-5118 or 580-0023.

VALLEY — Parents, grandparents and members of the community: Girl Scouts of Colorado invites you to become a mentor by volunteering with us. Share your interests, talents and leadership skills to help change a girl’s life forever. Please contact cheryl.martinez@gscolorado.org or 588-3825.

ALAMOSA — SLV Regional Medical Center (SLVRMC) and Colorado Colorectal Screening Program (CCSP) are providing free colorectal (colon) cancer screenings. A grant will allow 19 patients to receive free screenings at SLVRMC through April 2013. To be eligible patients must: meet Colorado identity and citizenship verification criteria; have no health insurance or have an insurance plan that does not cover any cost for these screenings; meet income requirements; and, be 50 and older or under 50 with personal or family history of colon cancer. Call SLVRMC Patient Navigator Theresa Curtis at 587-6319.

ALAMOSA — Join Alamosa Public Library every Friday for fun, innovative and engaging programming for Storytimes. Toddler Time ages 3 and under will be at 9:30 a.m. and Storytime ages 4 and up will be at 11 a.m. Call Becky at 589-6592.

MONTE VISTA — San Luis Valley Rural Electric Cooperative is selling a Newsboy recipe compilation to commemorate SLVREC’s 75th anniversary and help Valley food banks. Cookbooks can be purchased at SLVREC’s office in Monte Vista for $10 each. For every cookbook sold, SLVREC will donate $5 to the Valley Food Bank Network. Cookbooks are also available by mail. To order cookbooks through the mail, in addition to the $10 purchase price, please include $3.50 for shipping and handling per book. Send a check or money order to SLVREC, P.O. Box 3625, Monte Vista 81144.

ALAMOSA– Plans are underway for a gala celebration commemorating the 100th anniversary of Alamosa County on July 4. Any businesses, groups, vendors and bands interested in participating in the daylong festivities is asked to contact either Belinda Ramirez or Carol Osborn at the county offices, 589-4848, or by email: bramirez@alamosacounty.org or cosborn@alamosacounty.org.

VALLEY — Those who are expecting or already parents of multiples are invited to help establish a local chapter of Mothers of Twins Clubs, Inc. Call or text Christina Beiriger at 849-1253.

ALAMOSA — Light bulbs containing mercury may be recycled at the Christine Caton Insurance Agency just east of the Alamosa Post Office. Contact: 589-9031.

VALLEY — Bountiful Baskets Food Co-op, a volunteer-run food cooperative featuring fresh, high quality produce at wholesale pricing, is currently on a two-week rotation. Contribution is $18 for first time participants and $15 for returning participants. Sites are currently at the High Valley Community Center in Del Norte, Marsh Elementary School in Monte Vista and at the Gyllings’ property in La Jara. Visit www.BountifulBaskets.org or call or email Vilate Thacker 719-659-9174, vilatekthacker@gmail.com

SOUTH FORK — Kiwanis meets every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Carnegie Library in South Fork. Contact: Karen Miller, 719-873-5466 or email mkmillermink@aol.com

DEL NORTE —Every second Saturday of each month the Rio Grande Sportsman Club shooting range will be open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Cost will be $5 per person; children under 13 are free. Shooters must provide and wear their own hearing and eye protection. An NRA certified Range Safety Officer will always be present. For the safety of everyone, shooters must follow Range Safety Officer instructions.

The range is located 1.3 miles west of the Regional Landfill turnoff. Turn south off US 160 onto Rifle Range Road, at about mile marker 207.5. Please contact Greg Carpenter 580-0355, Dr. John Alfson 850-2712, or Dave Pote 580-0738.

ALAMOSA — La Puente has established a special fund to assist the Guatemalan workers that have been laid off from the Rahkra Mushroom Farm. Needs to be addressed include rent, utility, transportation, medical and other household emergencies. Food assistance can be donated to the San Luis Valley Food Bank Network and many local churches. To contribute to the Mushroom Workers Assistance Fund, please send tax-deductible contributions to La Puente, PO Box 1235, Alamosa 81101. Express the intent of the gift. To volunteer as a translator or for further information, please call 589-5909.

ALAMOSA — Toddler and Community Storytimes are back at the Alamosa Public Library. Parents and caretakers of young children are invited to come to the Alamosa Public Library every Friday for storytime with toddlers at 9:30 a.m. and community at 11 a.m. Come sing, dance, play and read. For information contact Children’s Librarian Becky Steenburg at 589-6592.

VALLEY — For those who would like to connect with other artists in the San Luis Valley, announce their work or are just interested in getting email announcements about the arts in the Valley, the SLVArtsannouncements group is available for them. Email slvartsannouncements-subscribe@yahoogroups.com, or if for those who have a Yahoo account go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/slvartsannouncements/

ALAMOSA — Alamosa County Public Health Department encourages young adults to seek reliable information about pregnancy, birth control and sexually transmitted infections at www.Beforeplay.org. Beforeplay.org is a website that encourages young adults to take responsibility for their sexual health by having conversations with their partners, friends, family members and medical providers. Call Alamosa County Public Health Department at 589-6639.

ALAMOSA — The City of Alamosa has vacancies on some of its advisory boards. Applicants must be city residents, verified through voter registration. For more information and application forms, go to www.cityofalamosa.org or call the Alamosa City Clerk’s office at 589-2593 ext. 8.

CREEDE —The Ladies Auxiliary of the VFW in Creede is seeking donations of cell phones, computers and other electronics. The items will be recycled and proceeds will be donated to veterans’ projects including Homelake and VFW sponsored organizations. For more information and to see if an item might be useful, please contact Betsy Strawn at 580-5983.

ALAMOSA — The Freedom Writer’s Community Writing Workshop meets every Wednesday at 5 p.m. at the La Puente Outreach Conference room, 929 State Ave., Alamosa. Participants spend time writing, learning how to become better writers, sharing their work with each other and listening to others share their works. Everyone is welcome. The second Wednesday of each month is an Open Mic at Milagros to share works with the greater San Luis Valley community. Call La Puente’s office of Community Education for information, 587-3499.

MONTE VISTA —The Monte Vista Historical Society has commemorative playing cards for sale, depicting various buildings and events in Monte Vista’s history, available at the MV Coop, MV City Hall, and the MV Information Center for $10 per deck.

ALAMOSA— School groups, birthday parties, scout troops, or clubs are welcome for a day of challenge and fun at the Adams State College Adventure Program Indoor Rock Climbing Wall. Groups of six or more can reserve the wall for private climbing experiences. ASAP staff will be available during group climbs to instruct participants how to belay and climb safely. For more information please contact Levi Wilner at 587-7813, or leviwilner@adams.edu or visit asap.adams.edu

ALAMOSA —Toastmasters meets every Tuesday from 12-1 p.m. at Trinidad State Junior College in Room 132. Everyone is welcome.

MONTE VISTA — Upper Rio Grande Animal Society has a low-cost, high-quality spay/neuter program in Monte Vista. Alpine Veterinary Hospital, P.C., 2835 Sherman Avenue, Monte Vista, will perform the spay/neuter surgeries through appointments only by calling 852-2561. This new program, funded in part by PetSmart Charities, is open for pet dogs owned by residents with zip code 81144, Monte Vista. Applications for the program will be available at Conour Animal Shelter, 2835 Sherman Avenue, Monte Vista 81144 or mailed by calling 852-3435. Completed applications may be dropped off at Conour Animal Shelter, 2825 Sherman Avenue, Monte Vista, or by mailing them to Upper Rio Grande Animal Society, P.O. Box 369, Monte Vista 81144.

SOUTH FORK — Recycle - Creede will stop in South Fork every third Friday from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. For more information contact 658-2020 or recyclecreede.org

ALAMOSA — Colorado State Patrol Office offers a Car Seat Fitting Station at the Colorado State Patrol Office, 3110 First Street in Alamosa, on the first and third Friday of each month from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. or by appointment, 589-2503. Nationally certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians will inspect, install or replace car seats. Up to 90 percent of all car seats are installed INCORRECTLY. If a car seat is replaced, a cash donation will be requested.

HOMELAKE — The Veterans History Center Museum at Homelake will not be open

Monday mornings and Saturday afternoons during the winter. Winter hours will be Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 10 to 12 and 1-3 p.m. or by appointment.

ALAMOSA —The San Luis Valley Blue Star Mothers meet the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. in Alamosa. For more info call Vicki Jones at 852-3123.

ALAMOSA —Tu Casa is now hosting groups for survivors of sexual assault, date rape, marital rape, and sexual abuse as a child. These groups are open to the community and area held at the Tu Casa office every Thursday from 12-1 p.m. For more information call 589-2465.

ALAMOSA — La Puente recently started a program for homeless veterans struggling with substance abuse and/or mental illness. The six month to one year program provides transitional housing, one on one case management, transportation to appointments and a tailored plan to help veterans get back on their feet. Please call 589-5909.

ALAMOSA —La Puente Homeless Shelter in Alamosa needs the following: canned vegetables, fruit, tomato products, pasta, sauce, beef, chicken, beans, fresh vegetables and fruit, canned tuna, peanut butter, cereal, rice and coffee; hygiene kits with items such as soap, shampoo, razors and cream, toothbrush and paste, deodorant, washcloth, etc.; spoons; work boots and pants in men’s sizes; blankets; towels; work gloves and hygiene products; mattresses and basic furniture; cups, mugs, jars, and glasses of all shapes and sizes. La Puente is also requesting simple items such as food donations and adult gifts for shelter guests. Practical presents might include gift cards, gas cards, or first aid supplies. La Puente’s children’s program needs recreational equipment such as educational games and sports safety gear. All programs need gas cards to help defray the high cost of fuel. Donations can be dropped off at 913 State Avenue, Alamosa. Call 587-3499 with questions.

MONTE VISTA — Do you have a talent or hobby you enjoy sharing with others? Why not consider teaching a Community Education Class through the Byron Syring DELTA Center. Instructors typically charge fees to offset their costs. Call Jenny at 852-2212.

MONTE VISTA — Dharma Study Group Meditation Study and Practice occurs from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. on Saturdays at the Carnegie Public Library in Monte Vista. Participants may bring a cushion or blanket for the meditation practice. For more information call: Tetsuko at 852-2868.

HOMELAKE — In memory to Corporal Randal Rosacker, 21, who was killed in action on March 23 2003, and is buried at Homelake, his parents would like to raise funds to replace all of the benches and install a site map to direct visitors to historical sites on the center’s grounds. Visit the website www.wix.com/rosacker/homelake-fundraiser or mail donations to “Homelake Foundation” with specific donation designated on the check, PO Box 97, Homelake, Colo. 81135.

VALLEY — Habitat for Humanity works with volunteers and applicants to build simple, affordable homes. For information and to request an application, please call the habitat office at 589-8678.

VALLEY — The San Luis Valley Housing Coalition offers affordable low interest loans to make home repairs with funding available on first come, first served basis. Call 587-9807 or pick up an application at 529 Main St. #6, Alamosa.

VALLEY — If you or someone you know is or has been a victim of domestic violence, contact Tu Casa’s 24-hour hotline at 589-2465 or visit their website www.sluvtucase.net.

MONTE VISTA — The Monte Vista Food Bank needs several items to help assist those in need in the San Luis Valley including lotions, towels, coffee, boxed goods, jelly, sandwich bread, feminine hygiene products, and shaving cream. Please deliver donations to the Monte Vista Food Bank on Tuesday or Friday from 2- 4 p.m. or call Sarah Elsey at 587-3499.

ALAMOSA — Biggles’ Battle Mountain Animal Shelter and Sanctuary is in need of blankets, towels, Igloo doghouses and dog and cat food and financial donations. The shelter is a “no-kill” shelter. Donations may be left at/mailed to 76 El Rio in Alamosa. For more information call the SLV Animal Welfare Society at 587-WOOF (9663.)

VALLEY — Residents of the SLV now have access to low cost HIV screening and testing through grant funding. The cost of the test is $5 each, though no one will be denied services if unable to pay. Please contact Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains in Alamosa at 589-4906 for confidential information and appointment times.

ALAMOSA — If there is a member of your family, or a family you know that is prone to wander away from home and become confused or lost, possibly due to a medical situation such as Alzheimer’s, a dementia disorder or Down syndrome or autism, the Alamosa County Sheriff’s Office offers CARE TRAK. Call the Alamosa County Sheriff’s Office at 589-6608.

ALAMOSA— La Leche League of the San Luis Valley holds its monthly meetings on the fourth Saturday of each month at 11 a.m. at Hospice del Valle, 524 Main St in Alamosa. Pregnant and nursing women are welcome to attend with their children and babies. Please call 587-3657.

ALAMOSA — A support group for neurological diseases meets from 4-5 p.m. the first Wednesday of every month at the old restaurant part of the Grizzly Inn in Alamosa. Both patients and caregivers are welcome.

ALAMOSA — Alamosa County Public Health is offering vaccine against cervical cancer. Girls 9 to 18 years of age qualify for this vaccine and are invited to special HPV clinics on Tuesday afternoons. Call 589-6639.

ALAMOSA — Adams State College Community Partnerships offers a recycling option for plastic caps. Bring them to the Community Partnerships Center, corner of Hwy 160 and Edgemont on the Adams State campus (former art building) from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. Call 587-8227.

ALAMOSA — Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group meets the second Thursday of every month from 9-11 a.m. at the First United Methodist Church, 2005 Mullens Ave., Alamosa. Call 719-937-2117 for more information.

DEL NORTE — American Legion Del Norte Memorial Post 406 meets the second Friday of the month at the Rio Grande Hospital at 7 p.m. Please enter through the emergency room visitors’ entrance. Meetings are held March through December. Contact is Commander John Alfson: 589-6658.

MONTE VISTA — Challenge Colorado Therapeutic Riding Program is in need of volunteers for their Saturday sessions. Volunteers must be at least 16 years of age and must complete a volunteer training. Call 852-2795 or 850-1535. Please leave a message.

ALAMOSA — Partner with Habitat for Humanity and drop off empty, bagged cans at one of the following official recycling locations.

Alamosa: City Market, Safeway and Villa Mall parking lots

Monte Vista: Jack’s Market & Safeway

La Jara: Jack’s Market

Del Norte: Jack’s Market

Antonito: Main and Third

Manassa: Donald’s Service on Main Street

Center: South Broadway and East Fifth

Contact David at 589-8678 for more information about hosting a bin at homes, businesses, or events.

MONTE VISTA — The Monte Vista Band Parents’ Association would like to help efforts to recycle and earn cash at the same time. Recycle empty inkjet cartridges, empty laser cartridges, used cell phones, digital cameras, laptops, iPods, PDAs/Palm Pilots, video games, and video game consoles. This is a year-round fund-raiser. Drop off items at Southern Colorado Computer Services, 157 Adams Street, Monte Vista or call Myrna at 852-2209.